This conversation is happening in December so we’re talking about navigating consumerism, the climate crisis and Christmas. However, the guide could be adapted for other events like holidays, religious celebrations, birthdays, weddings etc. As capitalism and consumerism turn anything and everything into opportunities for more spending and more consumption, there are plenty of occasions when we might find ourselves balancing our sense of crisis and alarm over the state of the world, against our desire to enjoy the events and celebrations that matter to us, to family, our tradition or plain simple fun.
Having mixed feelings, and experiencing grief mixed up in things that should bring us joy is a theme in our conversations. It’s difficult to ignore what we know about the climate crisis, the action that needs to be taken collectively in rich societies like ours to reduce pollution and restore our ecosystems and we can’t just turn it off during the festivities. So how do we find a way through?
This isn’t a conversation about how to have a green Christmas, there are plenty of articles about that already (though to be honest they make me feel worse, not better). It’s about how to navigate our feelings of alarm, our sense of ethical responsibility, our family friends and colleagues, and our desire for something much better.
As we’re having this conversation we need to be aware that people have different experiences and feelings around Christmas. It may be a joy, a chore, or a very difficult time. For people who love Christmas, having the edge taken off the joy and fun might bring feelings of loss, grief or resentment. For people who can’t wait for it to be over, advertising, consumerism and waste can be an extra source of distress. I think we can hold all these different experiences in our conversation with a bit of sensitivity and genuine care for each other’s feelings.
Conversation starter
I think a good place to start is with our personal feelings. Can you relate to the experience of conflicted or mixed feelings in the run-up to Christmas? What are you feeling when you consider this, and what comes to mind?
Facilitation notes: Allow a few minutes of quiet to let ideas come. Have paper and pens available. When everyone has had enough time, go around the circle, allowing each person to share their thoughts and feelings while everyone else listens. Act as scribe for the group making notes where everyone can see them. Check with the person speaking to be sure you captured what they wanted to say.
When we have all had the chance to talk individually, let the group talk about their responses and further ideas that might emerge.